How to Combine Calcium Channel Blockers

Physicians prescribe calcium channel blockers to treat high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain caused by lack of blood flow to the heart,) and abnormal heart rhythms. Calcium channel blockers slow the absorption of calcium into the heart and blood vessel cells, which makes the vessels relax and increase the oxygen content of the blood. A physician must be careful when combining calcium channel blockers with other medications. The goal is to avoid adverse reactions.

Instructions

• 1

  Check the prescription label on the calcium channel blocker for warnings of adverse reaction combinations. All prescriptions differ depending on the compound and the dosage.

• 2

  Avoid taking medications known to create reactions with calcium channel blockers, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, digitalis heart medicines, medications used to correct irregular heart rhythms, anti-seizure medications and cyclosporine. These drugs in combination with calcium channel blockers can reduce or increase the reactions of both drugs, potentially creating negative effects either way.

• 3

  Call the physician to check that a combination of calcium channel blockers and another medication will mix harmlessly.